Saudi-Culture-A-Journey-of-Achievements-and-a-Cornerstone-of-Development

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has witnessed a qualitative leap in the field of culture in recent years, as culture has become one of the pillars of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and a fundamental cornerstone of societal and economic development.

Since the establishment of the Ministry of Culture in 2018, a succession of initiatives and projects have reinforced the Kingdom’s position on the cultural map regionally and globally, solidifying its presence in various international forums.

A royal order was issued to establish a ministry named the Ministry of Culture, transferring to it the tasks and responsibilities related to cultural activity.

Approval was also given for a proposal to establish an administration named the « Historic Jeddah Project Administration » linked to the Ministry, with an independent budget allocated to it.

Saudi Cultural Activity

Prior to that, the « General Authority for Culture, » established by a royal order, was responsible for cultural activity in the Kingdom.

A Cabinet decision was issued to transfer the responsibilities for organizing the events of the National Festival for Heritage and Culture (Janadriyah Festival) to the Ministry of Culture.

Approval was issued for a proposal regarding directing government entities to acquire national artworks and handicraft products for their premises, emphasizing the use of only national artworks according to a guide prepared by the Ministry of Culture.

Qualitative Initiatives and Projects

Numerous initiatives were launched to promote learning and develop youth skills. The design plan for the « Journey Through Time » project in AlUla was launched, followed by the launch of the « Revitalization of Historic Jeddah » project.

The first session of the Cultural Cooperation Prize between Saudi Arabia and China was inaugurated, aiming to honor outstanding academics, researchers, and artists from both countries.

It included 27 prominent initiatives such as: the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, the Red Sea International Film Festival, the Cultural Scholarship Program, the Diriyah Biennale, Cultural Awards, Specialized Museums, Cultural Festivals, the Children’s Culture Program, the National Culinary Festival, and the Saudi Culture City.

The Kingdom and UNESCO

The Kingdom’s journey to register its heritage on the World Heritage List began in 2006, with Hegra (Al-Hijr Archaeological Site) being inscribed in 2008 as the first Saudi site on the list.

Achievements continued with the registration of sites such as the At-Turaif District in ad-Dir’iyah, Al-Ahsa Oasis, and the Hima Cultural Area in Najran, alongside the inscription of heritage elements like Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, Al-Sadu weaving, and Arabic calligraphy on the lists of intangible cultural heritage. The Kingdom was also elected to membership in important international committees at UNESCO, enhancing its global cultural

Historic Jeddah Project Administration

The Historic Jeddah Project Administration is a Saudi initiative focused on preserving and restoring the historic core of Jeddah, known as Al-Balad. This UNESCO World Heritage site was established in the 7th century and flourished for centuries as a major Red Sea port for pilgrims traveling to Mecca. The project aims to conserve the area’s unique coral-built architecture and revitalize it as a cultural and commercial hub.

National Festival for Heritage and Culture (Janadriyah Festival)

The National Festival for Heritage and Culture, commonly known as the Janadriyah Festival, is Saudi Arabia’s most prominent annual cultural event. Held near Riyadh since 1985, it was established to celebrate and preserve the nation’s diverse heritage. The festival features traditional crafts, camel races, folk music, and dances from all regions of the country.

Journey Through Time project in AlUla

The Journey Through Time project is a major development plan in Saudi Arabia’s AlUla region, designed to protect and showcase its vast heritage. The project focuses on a 20-kilometer core area that encompasses ancient archaeological sites like the Dadanite kingdom’s capital and the Nabataean city of Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its goal is to sustainably transform AlUla into a living museum while celebrating 200,000 years of human history.

Revitalization of Historic Jeddah

The Revitalization of Historic Jeddah is a major project in Saudi Arabia aimed at preserving and restoring the Al-Balad district, the historic core of the city. This area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a vital Red Sea port for centuries, serving pilgrims and traders, and is renowned for its distinctive coral-stone architecture. The initiative focuses on conserving its unique buildings, revitalizing its commercial spirit, and transforming it into a vibrant cultural and tourist destination.

King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language

The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language is a contemporary institution established in 2020 by royal decree to serve, protect, and promote the Arabic language globally. It focuses on supporting Arabic’s use in cultural, scientific, and digital spheres through research, educational programs, and policy development. The academy represents a major modern initiative to strengthen the language’s role in the 21st century.

Red Sea International Film Festival

The Red Sea International Film Festival is a major annual cultural event launched in 2019 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It was established to celebrate global cinema and foster the growing film industry in the Kingdom, following the country’s social and economic reforms. The festival showcases a diverse selection of Arab and international films, aiming to bridge cultures and empower new cinematic voices.

Diriyah Biennale

The Diriyah Biennale is a major contemporary art exhibition founded in 2021 that takes place in the historic city of Diriyah, the original home of the Saudi royal family and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Established to showcase local and international artists, the biennale aims to position Saudi Arabia as a significant hub for global contemporary art and cultural dialogue. Its location in the restored JAX district of Diriyah creates a powerful dialogue between the nation’s profound history and its dynamic, modern artistic expressions.

Hegra (Al-Hijr Archaeological Site)

Hegra, also known as Al-Hijr, is a significant archaeological site in Saudi Arabia and the first location in the country to be inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the southernmost major settlement of the Nabataean Kingdom, flourishing in the 1st century CE, and features over 100 well-preserved monumental rock-cut tombs with elaborate facades. The site bears testimony to the Nabataeans’ hydraulic expertise and caravan trade, and also contains inscriptions from earlier periods, including Lihyanite and Roman.